Latrobe
It’s true, the platypus is elusive – but you’ve got a good chance of seeing one at Latrobe.
The curious amphibious monotreme is celebrated here. Visits to Warrawee Forest Reserve on the Mersey River (3.5km from town) at dawn or dusk often reward with sightings of platypus. And there’s a carved Big Platypus in town as a reminder.
This quiet little town on the Mersey River dates back to the 1820s when it was the main port of the north-west. There are more than 70 heritage-listed buildings in the main strip reflecting that history, ranging from the grand to the quaint.
For a small town, Latrobe likes to host a festival or two. Love chocolate? So do the locals. Time your visit with the annual Chocolate Winterfest, and be sure to drop in at the House of Anvers, a popular chocolate factory and tasting experience.
A highlight of the Henley-on-Mersey Australia Day Festival is wood chopping. Fun fact: Latrobe is the home of this classic Aussie sport; the first wood chopping championship was staged in the town in 1891. Check out the Australian Axeman's Hall of Fame at Bells Parade.
House of Anvers
Chris Crerar
Chocolate Winterfest
Chris Crerar
Chocolate Winterfest
Chris Crerar
Latrobe Public Library
Chris Crerar
Platypus
Liam Neal
Where
Latrobe is a 10min drive (11km) south-east of Devonport and a 1hr drive (91km) north-west of Launceston.
Insider tips
- Australia's only orchid reserve is at Latrobe, containing more than 40 species, some endemic to the area. Find the Henry Somerset Orchid Reserve on Railton Road.
- Head to the entrance of Latrobe Oval to see a statue commemorating AFL Hall of Fame member and Latrobe premiership captain-coach Darrel “Doc” Baldock.
